Self-determination: the key to successful weight loss and maintenance programs

Abstract

While studies show that most people are not able to keep weight loss for the long-term, probably due to the lack of motivation, recent studies show that the effective choice and implementation of motivational strategies are fundamental to building up positive-thinking and long-term motivation, as well as succeeding at habit-formation. This manuscript provides qualitative research on the effect of motivation as a factor in behavioral interventions to reduce overweight or obesity, highlighting the importance of self- determination for succeeding in long-term weight loss and maintenance programs.